Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the changing dynamics of marriage and singlehood among women in Japan, highlighting the economic and social factors that influence their choices and the resulting implications for their lives and well-being [4][5][6]. Group 1: Economic Context - Japan's prolonged economic stagnation has led to a significant shift in women's life choices, with the lifetime unmarried rate for women projected to approach 30% by 2035 [6]. - The traditional view of marriage as a safety net has transformed into a perception of risk, as many women weigh the costs and benefits of marriage against their economic stability [7]. - The employment landscape has changed drastically since the 1990s, with women often relegated to non-regular employment, resulting in lower average salaries and job security compared to men [9][10]. Group 2: Changing Marriage Dynamics - The historical norm of "marriage followed by resignation" has shifted to a reluctance to resign from jobs due to the fear of losing economic independence [11]. - Many women cite the lack of a financially stable partner as a primary reason for remaining unmarried, with 46.2% of unmarried women aged 30-34 identifying this as a key factor [11]. - The burden of household responsibilities remains disproportionately on women, leading to a "double shift" where they manage both professional and domestic duties [16]. Group 3: Social Security and Support Systems - Japan's social security system is primarily designed around the family unit, leaving single women at a disadvantage in terms of tax benefits and pension entitlements [20][21]. - The concept of a "single tax" emerges, where unmarried women face higher tax burdens and lower social security benefits compared to their married counterparts [21]. - The increasing number of elderly single women is projected to face higher poverty rates, exacerbated by their longer life expectancy and lower lifetime earnings [21][22]. Group 4: Implications of Freedom and Autonomy - While women in Japan have gained more choices regarding marriage and career, this newfound freedom does not come with adequate support or security [25]. - The article emphasizes that the autonomy women experience is often a forced choice, leading to increased risks and uncertainties in their lives [26]. - The narrative of older women living in poverty highlights the systemic failures in providing adequate support for those who choose or are forced into singlehood [27][28].

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the changing dynamics of women's lives in Japan, highlighting the increasing number of women living independently without marriage, and the socio-economic factors influencing these choices [2][3][4]. Group 1: Societal Changes and Women's Choices - The drama "The Two in the Residential Area" reflects the lives of two single women in their 50s, showcasing the warmth of their friendship amidst societal neglect of their realities [1][2]. - The long-term economic stagnation in Japan has led to a significant rise in the lifetime unmarried rate for women, projected to reach nearly 30% by 2035 [3]. - Many women view marriage as a potential risk rather than a safety net due to pressures from the job market and changing gender roles [5][10]. Group 2: Employment and Economic Factors - The employment landscape for women has shifted dramatically since the 1990s, with many being pushed into non-regular employment, resulting in lower wages and job security [6][7]. - The average monthly salary for women in non-regular positions is about 60% of that of regular employees, contributing to a precarious financial situation [7]. - The fear of job loss has led to a new survival strategy among women, where they are hesitant to leave their jobs even for marriage [8]. Group 3: Marriage and Family Dynamics - Traditional gender roles have been disrupted, making marriage less economically viable for women, as male incomes have stagnated or declined [10][11]. - Women are increasingly burdened with both professional and domestic responsibilities, leading to a "double shift" that diminishes the appeal of marriage [12][13]. - The reform of divorce laws has made it easier for women to leave unsatisfactory marriages, but the economic consequences of single parenthood remain severe [14][15]. Group 4: Systemic Issues and Social Support - Japan's welfare system primarily supports families, leaving single women at a disadvantage, often referred to as a "systemic single tax" [16][17]. - The projected increase in elderly single women living alone raises concerns about their financial security and access to social support [18][19]. - The article emphasizes the need for a social safety net that does not rely on marital status, advocating for a system that supports all individuals regardless of their family structure [24][25].